Welsh Conservatives today backed warnings from the UK Government that energy companies should not seek to block changes which could see customers better informed about any energy bill hikes.
Currently energy companies can wait up to 65 days before informing customers that their energy prices have increased so energy users are unaware of how much they are being charged.
Ofgem is expected to begin a consultation on ending the practice, but there are fears that energy companies may object to the changes.
Angela Burns AM, Shadow Minister for Environment and Sustainability said, “I am appalled that energy companies could treat consumers with such a dismissive attitude.
“Keeping customers in the dark about how much they are paying for the energy they use means families may face unexpectedly high bills, eating into their disposable income.
“This practice hits the elderly and those on fixed incomes hardest. At a time when families across Wales are having to tighten their belts, energy companies should be working with government to help people lower their energy bills, not only to help their household budgets but also to reduce Wales’ carbon footprint.
“I hope that energy companies will not treat Welsh consumers with contempt by objecting to these sensible proposals which will help protect the most vulnerable in Welsh society.”
